Blue stalkless kurinji flowers bloom in IdukkiNirmal City (Idukki, August 15, 2016: A variety of kurinji specific
to lower elevations (Strobilanthes sissilis) has flowered on the
hilltops near Nirmalcity, a rural area about seven km from
Kattappana and about 15 km from Idukki this month.

This is the same species reported to have flowered at Calvary Mount
in Idukki district of Kerala.

The flowering is somewhat gregarious especially on the hilltops near
Nirmalcity. However, plants that have not flowered with the rest of
the batch are also seen especially at Calvary Mount.

The hills here, which encircle part of the Idukki reservoir, are
around 1000 metres in height. Unlike Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes
kunthiana) which occurs above 1200 metres, Strobilanthes sissilis
grow only in areas below 1200 metres and is locally known as Mettukurinji.
It is a small perennial shrub, usually half a meter tall. It can
grow up to two metres before flowering. The leaves are ovate and
rounded at the base. It has sessile leaves (leaves issuing directly
from the stem). The flowers are blue with with a pinkish tint.

The flowering cycle has not been determined accurately though some
say it needs seven years to grow and flower. However, as all plants
are not flowering en masse, flowerings occur every year if the local
people could be believed. The flowering season is between July
and November.

A large number of people are now visiting Nirmalcity surroundings to
see the kurinji plants in bloom.